Carnival Cruise Line brand ambassador John Heald has spoken out about another rumor circulating on social media, this time addressing the cruise line’s beloved towel animals. Such rumors are easily spread but without substance, yet can still be of concern to eager cruise travelers.
Towel Animal Rumor Is Untrue
A new rumor circulating online has announced that starting November 1, Carnival Cruise Line will be implementing a new policy ending the practice of placing “towel animals” in guests’ staterooms.
Though the so-called announcement cites “Carnival corporate policy” and claims the information comes directly from a guest’s stateroom attendant, there is no such official announcement.
Carnival Cruise Line Towel Animals
“This is 100% false, ridiculous, nonsensical information,”said John Heald, Carnival Cruise Line’s brand ambassador.“We are not removing the towel animals. They remain an iconic part of what we have been for 52 years, and they always will be.”
The reasoning given for the rumor is that the towel animals “take too much excessive time” and therefore detract from a stateroom attendant’s other duties as they clean multiple cabins.
About Towel Animals
Yes, it does take a couple of minutes to craft that fluffy white elephant, floppy-eared dog, or other towel animal. However, any Carnival guest who has attended the onboard instructional class to learn how to fold their own towel animals or seen towel-folding demonstrations knows that experienced attendants can make these creations quickly and efficiently.
Some of the favorite towel animals onboard include the long-necked dinosaur, quirky pig, romantic swans, the monkey or bat hanging from the stateroom ceiling, or even the bear, stingray, rabbit, or bullfrog.
Carnival Cruise Line Towel Animals
Among the more elaborate creations include the huge alligator some guests might find lounging on their stateroom bed or even human-like figures crafted in part from guests’ own clothing or accessories such as hats and sunglasses.
Finding out which towel animal will make an appearance each day is a fun part of the cruise for many Carnival guests. Passengers can even request their favorite towel friends, and many travelers save their menagerie throughout their cruise to enjoy a growing zoo every day.
If they prefer, guests can ask attendants to skip the towel animals altogether.
On some sailings, Carnival crew members also put together a towel animal parade or showcase, when a full range of creations are displayed on the pool deck or in one of the ship’s lounges for guests to admire.
Other Recent Rumors
Heald has addressed a variety of rumors recently, always resulting from misinformation on social media.
Heald, who has served with Carnival Cruise Line since 1989, is the cruise line’s official “brand ambassador” and has more than 530,000 followers on social media.
He uses his enormous presence and his dry British wit to answer hundreds of questions every day, as well as keep all Carnival cruisers updated on the company’s goings-on.
Details about loyalty VIFP gifts, previews of menu or dining changes, dress code concerns, emergency itinerary or schedule updates, behind-the-scenes looks at ships under construction, and clarifications about onboard policies are just a few of the topics Heald regularly discusses.
He also joins special sailings every year, the wildly popular “For Fun’s Sake” cruises with special events and meet-and-greet opportunities available. The 2024 FFS Cruise will be aboard Carnival Horizon in February, visiting stunning Caribbean destinations.
Royal Caribbean International has begun reaching out to guests booked on the September 8, 2023 departure of Radiance of the Seas with the news that the sailing has to be cancelled.
This is due to the ongoing engine repair issue that began during the ship’s August 25 cruise and has already cancelled the September 1 sailing.
Another Radiance of the Seas Cruise Cancelled
Guests booked on the upcoming September 8 sailing for Radiance of the Seas have received the unhappy update that their cruise must be cancelled due to the ongoing engine repairs for the ship.
The cruise was to have been the ship’s last northbound, 7-night Alaska sailing of the season, departing Vancouver, Canada on September 8 and visiting Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Sitka, and Skagway, as well as scenic cruising by Hubbard Glacier, before arriving in Seward, Alaska, on Friday, September 15.
Royal Caribbean’s Radiance of the Seas (Photo Credit: TamasV / Shutterstock)
Instead, Royal Caribbean has reached out to booked guests to notify them of the cancellation.
“Despite our best efforts, we were unable to complete the needed repairs to make it in time to Vancouver. As a result, we’ll be canceling our Radiance of the Seas September 8th, 2023 sailing,” the notification read.
At the moment, the ship remains docked in Seward, where it has been stationary since arriving at the port on September 1. That first September cruise was cancelled on embarkation day due to the undisclosed propulsion issue.
What Does This Mean for Booked Guests?
Due to the unexpected issue, Royal Caribbean is offering compensation to impacted guests for the September 8 sailing. Passengers can choose to receive a full refund of their cruise, which includes any pre-purchased packages, that will be completed in 14 business days.
If the cruise was booked using a Future Cruise Credit, Royal Caribbean will still honor the credit so that it can be used for another booking instead.
Radiance of the Seas (Photo Credit: Songquan Deng / Shutterstock)
In addition, all guests can receive a 100% Future Cruise Credit (FCC) for the Radiance of the Seas cancellation, which can be used on another sailing that departs within a year. This offer will be received by September 29, 2023.
Furthermore, guests will be reimbursed for non-refundable, pre-purchased travel fees – flights, hotels, trains, rental cars, etc. – up to $250 (USD) per guest for domestic changes, or up to $500 per guest for international changes. Receipts must be emailed to the cruise line’s Guest Relations company for review before reimbursement will be authorized.
What About Additional Cruises?
With two full 7-night sailings now cancelled for Radiance of the Seas and the ship still remaining in Seward, Alaska, guests on further upcoming sailings are naturally concerned.
After the September 8 cruise, the ship’s next voyage is schedule to be a reverse southbound Alaska sailing from Seward back to Vancouver, departing September 15. Since the ship is still in Seward at the moment, this might be a feasible cruise to set sail as planned.
The following sailing is a 7-night Alaska Glacier itinerary roundtrip from Vancouver departing on September 22, and is the ship’s last sailing of the Alaska season.
Photo Credit: Volodymyr Kyrylyuk / Shutterstock
Following the Alaska season, Radiance of the Seas is scheduled to reposition to Tampa, Florida, via a pair of one-way sailings.
First, the ship will move from Vancouver to San Diego departing on September 29 with calls in British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and California along the way. The following cruise – departing October 7 – will transit the Panama Canal and visit ports in Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, and Colombia.
At the moment, sailings from September 15 onward are still scheduled to depart as planned. Guests booked on upcoming sailings, however, should be sure their contact information with Royal Caribbean is updated so they can be alerted to any delays, adjustments, or cancellations as quickly as possible in case of changes.
Galataport, the cruise port for Istanbul, is a wildly popular and bustling destination for cruise ships sailing the Eastern Mediterranean, but reports are emerging that the local population is not fully supportive of the sights and sounds that come with the vacation-at-sea option.
The port’s cruise terminal, which opened in 2021, is an underground facility that can accommodate 15,000 cruise arrivals per day and roughly 1.5 million per year.
As in other port cities, the cruise ships that carry them often announce their arrival and departure by blaring their horns, a practice that has some city residents fed up.
Residents Critical of Cruise Ship Horn Blasts
Galataport is situated on the Bosphorus, a strait connecting the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara, in Istanbul’s city center. A September 2, 2023 report in The Guardian pointed out that some local people have grown weary of seeing mega-ships enter and exit the port, and of hearing the horn blasts.
“Ships from one particular cruise line even honk the theme to the television show ‘The Love Boat’ as it pulls into port,” The Guardian reported, referring to a Princess Cruises’ ship.
Cruise Ships Docked in Istanbul (Photo Credit: YoncaEvren / Shutterstock)
Indeed, the roster of ships scheduled to call at the port in the coming weeks reads like a who’s who in the cruise industry, including Norwegian Cruise Line’s 2,400-guest Norwegian Jade and 3,220-guest Norwegian Viva, Princess Cruises’ 3,660-guest Enchanted Princess, Celebrity Cruises’ 3,260-guest Celebrity Beyond, and MSC Cruises’ 4,000-guest MSC Splendida and 3,600-guest MSC Poesia.
Read Also: Azamara Reveals Special Events for 155-Night Voyage
Welcoming tourists is not the problem, according to the locals interviewed by The Guardian. Istanbul is accustomed to an influx of visitors, but some object to the size of the mega-ships entering the city center.
“Even if I want to go out and get a coffee, I check the cruise ships’ schedule first. They’re like big apartment blocks sailing in, five or six stories high. They block everything,” one Istanbul resident said.
Many smaller cruise ships also call at the port on a regular basis during cruise season. In the next month, smaller ships carrying under 1,000 guests, such as Azamara Cruises’ Azamara Quest, Seadream Yacht Club’s Seadream II, Seabourn’s Seabourn Encore, and Windstar Cruises’ Star Legend, are scheduled to dock at Galataport.
Redevelopment of the Port a Concern for Locals
Galataport entered the planning stages in 2016, with government officials envisioning a full redevelopment of what had been a hardscrabble industrial area with warehouses and a decades-old ferry terminal.
The construction of Galataport brought upscale restaurants, luxury retailers, a hotel, a spacious promenade, and the underground cruise terminal, essentially privatizing the entire area, local residents say.
The high-security area obscures the water view for residents, too, with metal walls separating the cruise ships and the dock, The Guardian reported.
However, the technological accomplishment of building an underground cruise terminal is hailed by the Turkish government as a major achievement that will bring more tourist revenue into the country.
The underground Galataport cruise terminal, at about 300,000 square feet, operates with a hatch system, said to be the first of its kind in the world.
All services are underground, including passport control and customs, luggage operations, and access to ground transport, for taxis and shore excursion buses.
The residents of Istanbul who are critical of cruise ships entering the port are not alone. In recent years, several destinations have taken steps to limit cruises, and in some cases, ban mega-ships from their ports.
Venice, Italy, is one example, where government officials in 2017 banned ships of 100,000-gross tons and larger from docking in the city center, due to environmental concerns. Since the ban took effect, large ships must dock in Marghera, on the mainland, and transport guests into the city center.
A male passenger has been reported missing from Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Conquest after failing to debark the ship as scheduled on Monday, September 4, 2023.
Authorities are actively searching for the man, though the ship has been cleared and has already set sail on its next voyage to the Bahamas.
Man Missing From Carnival Conquest
As guests were debarking from the 110,000-gross ton Carnival Conquest in Miami on Monday, September 4, a male passenger failed to be recorded through either the onboard surveillance systems or US Customs and Border Patrol immigration checks.
Identified as 26-year-old Kevin McGrath, the guest is officially considered missing and authorities have instituted search procedures. McGrath is a black man with dark hair last seen wearing a black t-shirt, black shorts, and gray sneakers. He is 5 feet, 9 inches tall and weighs 170 pounds.
McGrath was reported missing on Monday, though he was seen at approximately 2 a.m. that morning by his traveling companion. The missing person report was made at roughly 7 a.m. as guests prepared to debark the ship.
Carnival Conquest had just returned from a 3-night cruise to Bimini in the Bahamas, and McGrath was not accounted for during standard debarkation procedures.
“The guest was not detected by surveillance systems, including U.S. Customs and Border Patrol during the debarkation process,”a statement from Carnival Cruise Line said.“Miami Dade police eventually cleared the ship to sail.”
🚨 #MISSING: Kevin McGrath, 26 years old, was last seen in the area of Port of Miami 1015 North America Way. The missing person may be in need of services. Anyone with information is urged to contact @CrimeStopper305 at (305) 471-8477 or by dialing **TIPS. pic.twitter.com/pmAAMpgSgM
Debarkation morning can be a chaotic experience for travelers, with different passengers able to debark at different times based on their assigned luggage tags or loyalty levels. Guests may also choose self-assist debarkation to be the first to leave the vessel if they carry off all their luggage without assistance.
It is unknown whether McGrath and his traveling companion were waiting for an assigned debarkation time or if they chose to leave the ship as soon as possible. It has also not been released whether or not McGrath lives locally in South Florida or if he also failed to check in for further post-cruise travel plans.
Search Underway
When McGrath’s absence was noted, authorities were alerted and a full shipwide search was initiated, as is standard procedure for any missing guests or possible overboard alert.
The US Coast Guard was informed and searched surrounding waters near PortMiami, but with no success. Also involved in the investigation is the Miami-Dade Police Department’s Special Victims Bureau, as officials have said the guest may need special services.
US Coast Guard Plane (Photo Credit: CarlaVanWagoner / Shutterstock)
The nature of those services or other information about the guest has not been revealed to safeguard his privacy and keep from hampering the investigation.
Carnival Cruise Line’s care team is assisting McGrath’s family and keeping them updated on search efforts.
Carnival Conquest is now on its next cruise, a 4-night sailing to the Bahamas that will visit the cruise line’s private island destination, Half Moon Cay, as well as Nassau, before returning to PortMiami on Friday, September 8.
The first-in-its-class vessel can welcome 2,980 guests aboard, and is currently homeported from Miami offering 3- and 4-night sailings to the Bahamas, as well as occasional Western Caribbean itineraries that visit destinations such as Key West, Cozumel, Grand Cayman, and Honduras, depending on the cruise length and departure date.
Disney Cruise Line fans have a bountiful treasure to anticipate with the upcoming Disney Treasure, slated to debut in late 2024. The cruise line has now revealed amazing new features and amenities onboard the ship, sister ship to Disney Wish, including details about onboard venues, signature experiences, and luxurious staterooms – all charting a course for adventure.
The reveal video opened with the unlocking of a small, padlocked box with an engraved Disney Treasure plate on the lid, revealing a treasure map shaped like a cruise ship and showcasing stylized representations of famous Disney locations from favorite films, including Aladdin, Coco, The Lion King, Moana, Mulan, The Incredibles, and Zootopia.
Disney Treasure Cruise Ship
Disney Treasure promises to “unlock more Disney stories than ever before” with adventure beginning in the Grand Hall, with a bronze statue of Aladdin and Jasmine on their Magic Carpet.
The ship’s overall theme is “adventure” with nods to the most adventurous of Disney movies, theme parks, and stories throughout the ship’s decor and venues.
“The Disney Treasure will bring brand-new stories to life, blending one-of-a-kind experiences with the extraordinary entertainment, world-class dining and unparalleled hospitality that make every sailing so memorable,”said Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager, Disney Cruise Line.
“As we chart a course for adventure, we’re so excited for families to discover the excitement and exploration that awaits onboard the sixth ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet.”
Theme Parks on the High Seas
Disney Treasure is the first ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet to offer theming related to the company’s theme parks.
For example, the brand new Skipper Society is a lounge near the ship’s central Grand Hall, evoking Disney Parks’ iconic Jungle Cruise attraction with an tropical décor and lush details.
Disney Treasure Skipper Society
Similarly, Periscope Pub is inspired by the 1954 film, “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” and the popular attraction that was open at Walt Disney World from 1971 to 1994. With steampunk décor and a “mysterious window” into the undersea world, guests will truly have an adventure in another world with every visit.
Periscope Pub
Disney Treasure will also feature its own 760-foot AquaMouse water coaster, with an all new adventure touring the “Mysterious Temple of the Golden Egg” as raft swirls through the waterslide to thrill every guest.
Entertainment Options
Guests on the new ship will also enjoy classic favorites as well as brand new, exclusive entertainment experiences. One of the ship’s stage productions will be the favorite tale as old as time, “Beauty and the Beast,” as well as the adventurous “Disney Seas the Adventure” opening show.
The wildly popular deck party, Pirate’s Rockin’ Parlay Party, will also be offered on Disney Treasure, complete with the cruise line’s signature fireworks (weather permitting).
Plaza de Coco
Dining venues will also offer entertainment of their own, with a Coco-themed two-night dining experience at Plaza de Coco, picking up from where the colorful 2017 Pixar movie ended and including the spirit of family throughout each event. The menu will be themed with Mexican influences as well, creating an all-immersive adventure for guests.
For a more high-tech dining adventure, Worlds of Marvel will also offer a new signature experience with details yet to be revealed, and guests will enjoy two nights’ dining at the superhero-themed venue.
Adventurous Staterooms
Guests will even enjoy elements of adventure and exploration in the ship’s 1,256 staterooms, with artwork highlighting the brave spirits portrayed in Pocahontas, Up, Encanto, and other favorite films.
Disney Treasure Verandah Staterooms
Especially adventurous is the ship’s signature “Tomorrow Tower Suite” with nearly 2,000 square feet of living space overlooking the ship’s top deck from inside the forward funnel. The exclusive suite can be accessed via a private, ensuite elevator and will comfortably sleep eight guests. Stateroom features include separate eating, sleeping, and play areas, as well as a full kitchen.
Debut Date and Itineraries Announced
Of special interest to eager cruisers is the fact that Disney Treasure will debut from Port Canaveral on December 21, 2024, with a 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise, the first of alternating Eastern and Western Caribbean sailings the ship will offer. While ports of call have not been confirmed, undoubtedly the ship will call on Disney Cruise Line’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay.
Bookings for Disney Treasure open on September 20, 2023, though previous Disney Cruise Line guests can book as early as Tuesday, September 12.
Details are emerging about how more than 50 cruise travelers were left in Auckland due to a paperwork miscommunication involving P&O Cruises Australia’s Pacific Explorer.
The incident happened in mid-July and nearly two months later many impacted guests are still dissatisfied with the way the cruise line has handled the fallout.
Paperwork Miscommunication Strands Travelers
When attempting to board Pacific Explorer for the July 17, 2023 departure, more than 50 prospective passengers were left without proper documentation and authorization to sail, which meant their cruise was forfeit and they were not permitted to board the ship.
The apparent mix-up occurred in Auckland, New Zealand, Pacific Explorer‘s current homeport, as guests were checking in for their 13-night “Bounty Adventure” cruise, scheduled to call on different Pacific Islands as well as destinations in both Australia and New Zealand.
Some guests failed to present the proper visas for one of the ship’s ports of call – Norfolk Island, an external territory of Australia located 670 miles (1,078 kilometers) northwest of Auckland and 905 miles (1,456 km) east of Brisbane.
Photo Credit: Wozzie / Shutterstock
Though the island is technically under the governance of Australia, it does enjoy limited sovereignty and sets its own entry requirements for travelers. While traveling directly from the Australian mainland to Norfolk Island does not require a visa, foreign passport holders or those traveling from New Zealand must use a passport as identification and may require a visa, depending on the country of their passport.
Impacted cruise passengers from Pacific Explorer reported to local news source NZ Herald that they were assured no visa was required so long as they were permanent New Zealand residents.
P&O Cruises has confirmed the incident, claiming that a travel agent was given the wrong advice on visa requirements, which was then passed along to cruise guests despite being advised to check entry requirements and other communications with the proper information.
“Guests and travel agents are sent emails and an SMS advising them of the need to check entry requirements. P&O Cruises’ pre-cruise communications stated the correct information,”said a P&O Cruises spokesperson.
Even though multiple guests were able to produce emails and text messages from P&O Cruises’ customer service department indicating they did not need a visa, that error was not sufficient to permit guests to board the ship and enjoy their cruise.
Photo Credit: Steve Tritton / Shutterstock
This miscommunication resulted in a number of guests not being able to set sail as planned. As individual travelers were denied boarding to the cruise ship, their luggage was retrieved from the vessel and they were on their own to return home as the ship sailed away.
Pacific Explorer is the oldest ship in P&O Cruises Australia’s fleet, having entered service in 2017 and previously known as Dawn Princess of Princess Cruises. The 77,441-gross ton, Sun-class vessel can welcome 1,998 guests aboard, and is also home to 900 international crew members.
The ship is currently homeported from Auckland, New Zealand, offering a variety of both short and long sailings. In December, the ship will reposition to Melbourne, Australia for different itineraries through mid-February, followed by Adelaide through March 2024.
Compensation Offered
Denied travelers were left wondering about refunds and reimbursement. P&O Cruises has said that affected passengers were “supported upon denial of boarding by providing full refunds and future cruise credits” but that may not cover all of each impacted guest’s individual expenses, depending on how they traveled to Auckland.
Individual travel insurance policies, if applicable, could help reimburse some of those expenses, depending on exact policy coverages and circumstances.
Passengers are understandably angry about the incident, and still seeking communication from P&O Cruises to address their complaints.
All cruise travelers, particularly when visiting more remote destinations or on sailings with multiple foreign ports of call, should always verify documentation requirements not just with their cruise line or travel agent, but also by confirming paperwork needs of each port of call they will be visiting to ensure they are not left on the dock.
If you have never been on a cruise ship, you might be surprised to see just how busy the back section of the ship is. In maritime terms, this charming area of the ship is known as the aft deck.
Despite its seemingly unexciting position at the back of the ship, the aft deck of most cruise ships offers a wide range of exciting amenities, relaxing lounge areas, and some of the most stunning views you can find anywhere on the ship!
Today, we will explore the many things the aft deck has to offer so you don’t miss out on this enjoyable area on your next cruise vacation. We will also look at aft-deck accommodations by exploring the benefits and drawbacks of booking an aft-facing cabin.
So, let’s dive right in and explore everything the aft deck of a cruise ship has to offer!
As mentioned, the aft deck of a cruise ship refers to the stern or rear portion of the vessel. For most cruise ships, the majority of the aft deck is an outdoor space where passengers can relax and enjoy the view.
While the aft deck’s main appeal is the eye-catching views of the churning water behind the ship, the aft deck is also a space that most cruise ships have dedicated to passenger amenities and luxurious cabins.
Not only will the aft deck feature lounge areas and observation platforms, but it can also have a wide variety of exciting amenities, such as swimming pools and hot tubs, outdoor dining patios, bars and cafes, spa facilities, and even sports areas, like basketball and tennis courts!
Cabins Near the Aft Deck
Aside from the passenger-friendly amenities you can usually find along the aft deck of a cruise ship, you can also find aft-facing cabins.
These cabins differ from the other types of cabins you will find on the ship, as they are strategically positioned to give occupants stunning views of the rear of the ship.
What Are the Advantages of Aft-Facing Cabins?
Given that the views are the main appeal of cabins in this part of the ship, most will feature massive panoramic windows and private balconies that allow occupants to soak in the view.
Where many cruise ship passengers simply use their cabins as a place to sleep and shower, aft-facing cabins become an attraction for those lucky enough to have them.
Aft of the Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Sean Pavone / Shutterstock)
Just imagine how beautiful it would be to wake up to the sight of an endless ocean stretching out behind the ship. Or, imagine enjoying a romantic drink from the privacy of your own aft-facing balcony. As you enjoy the view, you will see the cruise ship’s seemingly endless wake disappear into the distance.
Another advantage that aft-facing cabins offer is their proximity to the various amenities on the aft deck. While we will explain these amenities in greater detail later, the ability to access them quickly with a short walk can enhance your entire onboard experience.
Are Aft-Facing Cabins Expensive?
While pricing will vary from one cruise line to another, aft-facing cabins are generally considered among the most premium options. As you would expect, this is due to the incredible views offered by this section of the ship and the proximity to some of the most popular amenities on the ship.
With that said, even within the context of a single cruise ship, pricing can vary depending on the type of aft-facing cabin and the amount of floorspace it offers.
As you would expect, more private aft-facing cabins that offer large balconies are far more expensive than smaller options that are impacted by the noise and commotion of the aft deck amenities.
Should You Book an Aft-Facing Cabin?
Where you choose to stay onboard a cruise ship will depend on your preferences, as well as your budget. While aft-facing cabins tend to be more expensive than other options, like inside cabins, they also offer incredible views and luxurious interiors.
If you want to travel in comfort and luxury, the more elaborate interior of an aft-facing cabin might be to your liking. There is also the fact that aft-facing cabins offer more of a private sanctuary than other types of cabins. They usually have private balconies that provide an atmosphere of serenity.
Photo Credit: Jeff R. Clow / Shutterstock
If you are more private and looking to spend time together rather than socializing with other passengers, the privacy and exclusivity offered by a private aft-facing balcony could be well worth the added cost.
On the other hand, if you do not plan to spend much time in your cabin, you can enjoy these views by visiting the public amenities and observation areas on the ship’s aft deck.
What Types of Amenities Can the Aft Deck Offer?
While many people choose to visit the aft deck because it offers unparalleled views of the expansive waters behind the ship, another primary reason for the popularity of this section of any cruise ship is the wide range of amenities.
While some amenities offer the ability to relax and immerse oneself in the tranquility of being at sea, others offer fun and excitement. As you would expect, the aft deck of each cruise ship will be unique, but the following are just some of the amenities you could encounter if you venture to the aft deck on your next cruise vacation.
Swimming Pools and Hot Tubs
Many cruise ships will feature a swimming pool on the aft deck. Not only does this location provide swimmers with an incredible view of the horizon as they enjoy the pool, but many of these pools will also have unique designs that visually merge the pool with the water below.
For example, many aft deck swimming pools are designed with infinity edges, so it looks like the pool drops into the ocean or sea below.
Princess Cruise Ship Aft (Photo Credit: Sean Pavone / Shutterstock)
Depending on the particular cruise ship you are traveling on, you may notice that the aft deck features numerous pools. Each pool can have a different design or be designed for different groups. While some will have more family-friendly features, others are intended to be adults-only, so they have a more relaxing atmosphere.
Hot tubs and jacuzzi pools are also common along the aft deck of cruise ships, as the relaxing warmth of the water matches perfectly with the tranquil views found at the ship’s stern.
Restaurants, Bars, and Other Outdoor Dining Areas
The views along a cruise ship’s aft deck provide the perfect setting for dining areas. Most larger cruise ships will feature numerous outdoor, open-air dining areas, bars, and cafes.
Valiant lady Cruise Ship Aft (Photo Credit: Skyshark Media / Shutterstock)
More casual aft-deck restaurants can provide passengers with lunches and snacks throughout the day, and more upscale restaurants offer more elaborate meals to those looking to indulge. For many passengers, the dreamy atmosphere of the churning water below and fading daylight is an ideal setting for a romantic dining experience.
Remember that some of the more refined eating venues on the aft deck may not be included in your cruise fare. If you are looking to save money and enjoy your cruise vacation on a tighter budget, opt for some of the less expensive dining options.
Sports and Fitness Facilities
Another explanation for the popularity of the aft deck on most cruise ships is that many will feature various sports and recreation facilities.
Whether you are looking to enjoy some exciting team-based sports, like basketball and volleyball, or challenge a partner to a game of tennis, many cruise ships will feature the necessary facilities along the aft deck.
Yoga on Cruise Ship Deck (Photo Credit: Pavel L Photo and Video / Shutterstock)
While it is not always the case, some larger cruise ships will also feature outdoor gyms and exercise equipment along the aft deck. Others will simply have an aft-facing indoor gym, which provides fitness enthusiasts with incredible views as they complete their workout.
For those looking to embrace the mental restoration a cruise vacation can offer, many aft decks will feature yoga, meditation, and stretching areas, as well as massage and spa facilities. There is no better place to focus on your mental wellness than a location that provides stunning views and the freshest air.
Observation Decks and Lounge Areas
Unsurprisingly, cruise ships of all sizes will almost always feature an observation area on the aft deck. These areas provide passengers with views of the ocean or sea behind the ship and a comfortable and calm place to relax, rest, and socialize with others.
These areas usually offer a truly unobstructed view so passengers can look down at the churning wake created by the ship’s propulsion system or at the vast expanse of the water and sky in the distance.
View of MSc Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: ODIN Daniel / Shutterstock)
Not only will these areas have guard rails passengers can use to lean up against safely, most observation decks will have numerous seating options, like comfortable lounge chairs, bistro sets, and benches. These areas are excellent places to take in sunsets and sunrises, so make sure you head there early if you would like to sit at these times.
While some of these areas are in the shade as it helps protect passengers and provide a more relaxing atmosphere, other ships will go for a more open-air observation deck. If you hope to work on your tan while on the vessel, this is a great place to spend some time during the peak sunshine hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there cabins near the aft deck of a cruise ship?
Yes! Most cruise ships will have cabins on or near the aft deck of the ship. These can be known as “aft deck cabins,” “aft-facing cabins,” or “stern-facing cabins.”
Can I watch sunrises and sunsets from the aft deck of the ship?
Yes! The aft deck is one of the best locations on most cruise ships for enjoying sunrises and sunsets. The views are unobstructed, so you can easily see the sun rise or set over the open water.
Is the aft deck of a cruise ship quiet?
It depends on the types of amenities found on the aft deck of the ship you are traveling on. While most cruise ships will have a more relaxed observation area, the aft deck can be slightly loud during the day if it features sports facilities, family-friendly pools, and bars.
With that said, in the mornings and evenings, the aft deck should be relatively quiet, so you should be able to rest, read a magazine or book, or just take in the view.
Final Words
While the aft deck of a cruise ship can be pretty busy, it is worth visiting. Not only can this area of the ship offer a vast array of enjoyable amenities and delicious dining opportunities, but it also offers some of the most eye-catching views you will find anywhere on the vessel!
Whether you just want to visit the aft deck or you want to book an aft-facing cabin, do not overlook this area the next time you set off on a cruise vacation!
Despite its tragic maiden voyage, the RMS Titanic is still viewed as a lasting symbol of unrivaled luxury and grandeur. Not only was the Titanic groundbreaking due to its immense size and sophisticated propulsion system, but the interior of its upper decks was also designed to appeal to the desires of society’s more affluent upper classes.
The Titanic interior featured lavish dining areas, luxurious lounges, and comfortable cabin quarters to make the ship the symbol of elegance on the water. That said, the Titanic was not completely designed for luxurious travel, as its lower decks featured basic quarters and even cargo holds.
Today, we will look at the Titanic’s famously luxurious interior. We will look at the amenities and features that set the Titanic apart from the other ocean liners of its time. We will also examine some of the less extravagant areas of the ship so you have a more rounded view of what this iconic ship had to offer.
If you are ready to examine the Titanic’s interior design, it’s time to dive in!
When the Titanic was commissioned by its parent company White Star Line, the aim was to build an ocean liner that would be the world’s most comfortable and luxurious passenger ship.
It might surprise you to learn that the Titanic was just one part of a fleet of three ocean liners. White Star Line ordered the Titanic’s construction and the construction of her sister ships, the Olympic and the Britannic. These ships were dubbed Olympic-Class ocean liners and were designed to be the ultimate expression of luxury and efficient transatlantic travel.
To ensure that the Titanic and other ships in her class would be able to set the standard for luxury, designers spared no expense in designing and furnishing the interiors.
Not only did White Star Line want its largest ships to be associated with luxury, but the primary aim was also to attract Europe and North America’s wealthiest and most high-profile individuals.
Not only would appealing to these types of passengers add to the prestige of White Star Line by attracting prominent businessmen, celebrities, politicians, and even royalty, the belief was White Star Line would be able to charge vast sums for tickets in the first-class sections of the ships.
Highlights of the Titanic’s Interior
From the Titanic’s signature grand staircase to luxurious dining areas and lounges, the ship’s interior had all the hallmarks of a high-class hotel. To give you a better picture of the grandeur of the Titanic’s groundbreaking interior, here are just a few of the highlights.
The First-Class Cabin
One of the Titanic’s defining characteristics was the luxurious and comfortable cabins in its first-class section. While the first-class cabins were available in different sizes and levels of luxury, they were all designed to mimic the rooms in a high-end hotel suite.
The more expensive first-class cabins featured multiple bedrooms, private bathrooms, sitting areas, and lounge chairs. These rooms were also furnished and decorated with plush carpets and hand-carved wood.
These cabins also had numerous windows designed to give the occupants stunning views and natural light while they ventured across the Atlantic Ocean.
First Class Titanic Stateroom (Photo Credit: Robert Welch)
Even the smaller cabins in the first-class section of the ship featured expensive and luxurious furnishings. The beds were far more comfortable than would be standard on other ocean liners of the time.
Privacy was also prioritized, so walls separating cabins were much thicker and more soundproof than what would typically be found in the cabin quarters of a ship.
The First-Class Dining Room and Saloon
Given that it was designed to be the world’s most luxurious ocean liner, it is no surprise that the Titanic’s interior featured an incredibly opulent dining area. The ship’s notorious first-class dining saloon stretched the entire width of the vessel and was outfitted with lavish décor and furniture.
While it was not the ship’s only dining area, the first-class dining saloon alone could comfortably seat over 500 first-class passengers.
Even the ceiling of the dining saloon was utterly breathtaking, as it featured multiple crystal chandeliers, eye-catching light fixtures, and ornate wood and tin tiling. The walls and entrances were lined with bright white Romanesque columns and archways.
First Class Dining Room (Photo Credit: Francis Browne)
The tables were covered in high-thread white tablecloths, and the meals were served on fine china. Guests were also provided with crystal glassware and polished silverware. The ship also featured a high-end kitchen, which employed reputable chefs and cooks, so guests would be served gourmet meals that were never previously imaginable on an ocean-crossing ship.
Sophisticated Smoking Rooms, Bars, and Social Lounges
Beyond the primary dining areas, the Titanic also featured several social areas where first-class passengers could enjoy themselves as they traversed the Atlantic Ocean.
These areas were designed to be luxurious retreats that would force passengers to forget that they were actually in the middle of the ocean rather than sitting in a comfortable home or cigar bar.
The smoking room was a gentleman’s retreat. While this area was limited to male passengers, it was outfitted with mahogany wall panels, polished brass handrails, molded tin ceiling tiles, plush carpets, and leather upholstered armchairs and sofas.
Almost Identical Smoking Room From Sister Ship Olympic (Photo Credit: HefePine23 / Shutterstock)
The smoking area also featured a large and intricately decorated fireplace, which acted as a seating area where gentlemen could enjoy a cigar and a fine whiskey.
Beyond the first-class smoking room, passengers traveling first-class could also enjoy a well-crafted cocktail in one of the luxurious bar areas or refined conversation with other guests in the comfortable and sophisticated social lounges.
A luxurious a la carte restaurant allowed passengers to enjoy a sophisticated meal between more extravagant meals hosted in the primary dining room.
The idea behind these luxurious rooms was to help time pass quickly, so passengers would hardly notice they were at sea. Where crossing the ocean in the early 20th century was a lengthy and tiresome affair, the Titanic was designed to be a true pleasure for those traveling in its upper-class accommodations.
Additional Amenities
The Titanic’s first and second-class areas also featured other impressive amenities. These included reading rooms and libraries adorned with leather-bound books, comfortable armchairs, thick wooden desks, fireplaces, and the finest stationery.
First-class passengers could even enjoy access to two electric elevators. One was located near the ship’s atrium, while the second was located on the starboard side of the ship, which allowed first-class passengers to quickly access their cabins.
Even second-class passengers had access to an elevator on the port side of the ship, which, again, allowed them to travel to the second-class cabin areas.
Titanic’s Café Parisien (Photo Credit: Robert Welch)
Like other first-class areas of the ship, the reading rooms and libraries mimicked the most luxurious accommodations in cities like New York, Paris, and London.
Luxurious wood paneling, comfortable and plush furnishings, intricately carved molding along the ceilings, and eye-catching curtains all made passengers feel as if they were in a high-class establishment, rather than a ship at sea.
The Titanic’s primary first-class lounge was situated near the stunning views offered by the promenade deck. This area was one of the ship’s true highlights and was called the “First-Class Reading and Writing Room.” As the name implies, passengers could enjoy quiet areas for reading books and newspapers, or they could pass the time by writing in solitude.
This lounge also had areas where passengers could socialize and enjoy a beverage. Whether in the quiet reading areas or the livelier social rooms, the lounge was designed to provide a comfortable and pleasant environment where passengers could truly enjoy their trip in style.
Titanic Gymnasium (Photo Credit: Robert Welch)
The Titanic also featured amenities that most would associate with modern-day cruise ships, like a swimming pool, a luxurious Turkish-style bath and spa, a squash court, and even a fully equipped gymnasium allowing passengers to stretch their legs.
The gym was intended to provide passengers with the opportunity to work on their fitness, while also avoiding the boredom of a typical trans-Atlantic voyage.
The Grand Staircase and Entrance Way
One of the Titanic’s most iconic features was its enormous, eye-catching staircase. This unique feature was located in the forward section of the first-class area of the ship.
It featured a blend of hand-crafted, intricately carved oak and mahogany details and polished brass highlights. While the carpeted staircase was striking enough on its own, it was made even more brilliant thanks to a massive overhead glass dome, which allowed natural light to cover the entire staircase.
Identical First Class Staircase on Olympic
The grand staircase was such an ambitious detail in a ship that it became one of the Titanic’s most notable features. Even to this day, the grand staircase is remembered for its unique beauty. This was made even more iconic thanks to its central role in one of the Titanic movie’s most memorable scenes.
The Second-Class Cabins and Communal Areas
While the second-class accommodations were not quite as extravagant as those found in the first-class section of the Titanic, they were still incredibly comfortable and elegant.
The cabins were still fairly spacious and featured chic furnishings and décor. Like those found in the first-class quarters, the beds were comfortable, although somewhat smaller.
Titanic Voyage
Those with second-class tickets could also enjoy their own communal areas, which were impressively tasteful. These areas included a library decorated with polished woodwork and handcrafted enamel lamps.
Second-class passengers also had access to a smoking room, socializing lounge, bar area, and dining saloon. All of these areas were designed with grandeur and opulence in mind.
While many people with a basic understanding of the Titanic believe that luxury was limited to those in the first-class areas of the ship, even the ship’s second-class section was designed to be both memorable and luxurious, speaking to the overall grandeur of the Titanic’s interior.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long did it take to build the Titanic?
The Titanic took approximately two years and eight months to build. Work started in Belfast, Ireland, on March 31, 1909. On April 2, 1912, the Titanic completed its final sea trial, which marked its completion. Just eight days later, on April 10, 1912, the Titanic set off on its first and last voyage.
How much did it cost to build the Titanic?
The Titanic cost £1.5 million to make, equivalent to roughly $7.5 million at the time of its construction. When you account for inflation, this sum in 1912 would have been the modern-day equivalent of about $225 million.
While $225 million is far from insignificant, cruise ships today cost significantly more to build. The most advanced and luxurious cruise ships can easily exceed costs of $1 billion!
How many passengers could the Titanic carry?
Titanic was designed to accommodate roughly 3,300 passengers and crew members. Given its unrivaled luxury, the ship carried about 900 people, including butlers and waiters, the navigational crew, and engine room workers.
Of the passengers on board, about 700 would travel in first-class accommodations, 500 in the second-class section of the ship, and a further 1,000 in the ship’s less glamorous third-class area.
Final Words
While the Titanic was not the only luxury liner of its time, its sophisticated interior and massive scale made it stand out.
Even before it departed on its fateful maiden voyage, the Titanic had already gained a widespread reputation for its elegance and grandeur.
Even today, the Titanic’s interior is an example of luxury on the water. This legacy continues to impact today’s cruise line industry, as ships wow and amaze passengers with luxurious accommodations and dazzling amenities.
Cruise lines have offered touching tributes the day after the death of iconic singer, songwriter, and vacation-lover Jimmy Buffett, who passed on September 1, 2023 after a battle with lymphoma. The “Margaritaville” musician’s lyrical legacy not only shows on the decks of the boutique cruise line that bears his signature song name, but is familiar to cruise travelers everywhere.
Jimmy Buffett Passes From Skin Cancer
Jimmy Buffet (b. December 25, 1946) passed peacefully on Friday, September 1, after a brief stay on hospice due to the effects of several years’ battling lymphoma.
Most famous for his vacation-style vibes and vibrant love of life, the 76-year-old singer-songwriter created an empire with the breakout hit “Margaritaville” and various licensing tie-ins, restaurants, alcoholic beverages, resorts, and so much more.
Margaritaville at Sea is the boutique cruise line, launched in 2022 after rebranding from Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line, that bears his name, tropical influence, and dedication to relaxation and vacation enjoyment.
Drinks at Margaritaville (Photo Credit: Ralf Liebhold / Shutterstock)
“On behalf of everyone (who works, visits, or lives) in Margaritaville, we mourn the loss of Jimmy, a true national treasure, and express our heartfelt condolences to his family and everyone around the world who loves him,”the cruise line wrote on social media following Buffett’s death.
“We celebrate his life, believe his spirit lives on like a never-ending encore, and will see his radiant smile and that twinkle in his eye when we look towards the sun and will continue to share his way of life wherever, whenever we can.”
Photo Credit: Joe Ciciless / Shutterstock
Margaritaville at Sea offers 2-night cruises to Freeport in the Bahamas, with options for hotel stays for longer getaways. The cruise line’s one ship, Margaritaville at Sea Paradise, is decked out in tropical hues with instantly recognizable tropical beach and vacation accents such as palm trees, flip-flops, colorful parrots, and surfboards.
It isn’t just aboard Margaritaville at Sea Paradise that Jimmy Buffett’s songs and vacation-loving spirit set sail. The globally familiar tune “Margaritaville” and other Jimmy Buffett hits are popular at deck parties and on Caribbean private islands for many cruise lines, setting the scene for a relaxing, fun vacation.
“Many of you reading this will at some point, have been on the Lido deck of one of our ships, Fun Ship special in hand, singing along to Cheese Burger in Paradise and Margaritaville,”reflected John Heald, Carnival Cruise Line brand ambassador.“May your soul rest in peace, Jimmy. Thank you from all the Carnival Cruise Line family for the many years of music that you have blessed our cruises with.”
Margaritaville’s Jimmy Buffet
Royal Caribbean International also raised a glass to Jimmy Buffett, offering complimentary Margaritas to everyone on the line’s Caribbean-based ships to toast the legend.
“For many who worked, lived or sailed the Caribbean, Jimmy Buffett really helped make it even more enjoyable,”said Michael Bayley, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean.“Many a Margarita over a Caribbean sunset just tasted so much better!”
No matter which cruise lines guests have sailed with, Margaritaville restaurants have been a top hotspot at various ports of call for great food, generous drinks, and of course, fantastic music.
From Paradise Island in the Bahamas to Cozumel, Mexico to Grand Turk, Key West, Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, and more, Margaritaville restaurants offered a true taste of paradise in some of the top tropical cruise destinations in the world.
Have you visited a Margaritaville location while on a cruise? Share your parrothead experiences and Buffett tributes on the Cruise Hive Boards!
